Do you have a restless spirit? Perhaps you are filled with angst and discomfort due to the uncertainty of the future. Satan loves to torment us about the unknown and lead us to take steps that God never intended.
If we confess our discomfort and discontent to God, He will begin to guide us on a path of contentment.
In Psalm 16:11, David said to the LORD, “You will show me the way/path of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.” What great confidence he had in the God who loved him!
Sometimes God allows restlessness in our lives because He wants to lead us on to something greater. He put restlessness in the Israelites in Egypt, to want to leave their slavery. The day came when He led them out so He could lead them to the land He promised.
In Genesis 12:1, we read, “The LORD has said to Abram, ‘Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land I will show you.’” I am impressed by the faith he showed. When he left his native country, he had no destination – just a promise that God would lead him and that from his descendants He would make a great nation. God also changed his name, from ‘Abram’, meaning ‘exalted father’, to ‘Abraham’, meaning ‘the father of many nations.’ (Genesis 17:5)
When I left Canada years ago, I at least knew I was going to the States. I had to go through numerous immigration steps to get here, and I was nervous, but the Lord guided me here. I obtained my green card, and years later, I became a citizen. Now, He is leading Lesley and me into a new chapter of our lives. We are really excited because He has led us safely thus far.
Perhaps today, God has placed a restlessness in your heart, and you are a bit apprehensive. Let me assure you that God knows the long game and He invites us to play our different parts at different junctures.
In Deuteronomy 31:8, Moses said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” He (God) is making the same promises to you and me today. Embrace them. God always backs up His promises with His unchanging nature and character. Years ago, I came upon a phrase that spoke deeply to me — “God said it, I believe it, that settles it.” I have been able to face the unknown because God knows the whole story, and He will reveal it as I walk in obedience with Him.
If God has been calling you to walk forward, act boldly, or stretch out in a new direction that requires you to bear the discomfort of restlessness, be encouraged. You will not be alone. He will be with you.
In Isaiah 30:18c, we read, “For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help.” In verses 20-21, we read, “Though the LORD gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, He will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes. Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you, a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.”
Folks, you and I can trust Him. Every promise He makes to us, He is abundantly able to fulfill. Do not be impatient. Wait, listen, and go forward by faith in a faithful God.
Let Him bring excitement into your life.
Pastor Leonard
